Metabolic Syndrome Criteria & Risk Factors
If you're one of the 34 percent of American adults who has metabolic syndrome, you're at risk for developing cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. You may even be at risk for certain cancers. That's why it's important to understand metabolic syndrome criteria. According to the American Heart Association, metabolic syndrome occurs when a person has at least three of these five metabolic risk factors:
| Metabolic Factor | Risk Range |
|---|---|
| Abdominal Obesity | Waist circumference
|
| Triglycerides | 150 mg/dL or higher, or taking medication to treat high triglycerides |
| HDL Cholesterol |
|
| Blood Pressure | 130/85 mm Hg or higher, or taking medication to treat high blood pressure |
| Fasting Blood Sugar | 100 mg/dL or higher, or taking medication to treat high blood sugar |
According to these metabolic syndrome criteria, you're more likely to have the condition if you are obese, physically inactive, or have inherited a tendency toward metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is also more likely if you have an insulin resistance. That's when your body doesn't respond as it should to insulin, a hormone essential for regulating blood sugar.
The prevention and treatment of metabolic syndrome start with making healthy eating choices and getting enough physical activity to achieve a healthier weight.
For more information on metabolic syndrome criteria, go to the American Heart Association's website at www.heart.org, and talk with your healthcare professional.
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